There's an escapee from a POW camp in North Carolina hiding on Walton's Mountain and he is befriended by Jeffrey. They ask him in on Christmas Eve.

Zadoc Walton, Zeb's cousin, arrives to keep a 21 year old promise and makes a surprising contribution to Boatwright University.

Rose's ex-boyfriend Stanley Perkins arrives on Waltons Mountain and he makes a re-acquaintance with Rose.

Cindy's father gets killed and Cindy finds out she is adopted when she goes through some old papers. Cindy goes to find her Mother. Elizabeth and Drew have problems.

John-Boy comes home to ponder his future and he ends up doing a TV show for Boatwright University. Rose is given a run for her money by Zuleika Dunbar over the affection of Stanley.

Rose cancels her wedding to Stanley because she hides a heart condition. Cindy realizes that she would rather stay home than work in the shop.

A 14 year old girl is promised marriage in mountain tradition. Mary Ellen interferes and the bride-groom kidnaps Elizabeth to get his bride back. Octavia, an eccentric cousin of the Baldwins, is treated to a visit by him.